Amber Reed

"I have always enjoyed the challenge of trying something new and rugby has always been big within my family. I spent many year watching my dad and brother play and then staying for hours at the local rugby club playing games whilst the adults caught up at the bar. The values of the game are what got me hooked; sportsmanship, teamwork, respect, discipline and enjoyment; and still to this day are a massive part of why I am still involved in the game and trying to inspire the next generation to start playing. I have been lucky to make so many lifelong friends through the sport both at the University of Exeter and at Bristol Bears where I continue to play my club rugby after nine years.

"At University it was difficult at times to juggle studying and training. It was all about trying to plan ahead and manage my time effectively, knowing I couldn't leave every deadline to the last minute. I had to go to training to continue to develop myself as a rugby player as I strived to play for England one day, but I also wanted to get a good degree and work hard so I could get a job once I left... there was no option to be a professional rugby player back then!

"Getting the balance right meant I didn't have to sacrifice one to do another. For example, I didn't miss a training session to finish an assignment or miss a deadline because I was at training. Lots of choices had to be made and on the rare occasion I made a Wednesday night timepiece or Saturday night BOP on St. Luke's I made the most of the time with my friends knowing I would have to say no most other weeks. I had very understanding teammates and housemates who supported me throughout my time at University and I am very grateful for the help I received from them.

 "As well as my teammates from EUWRFC and my housemates I have no doubt that my scholarship helped me during my time at university. During my 3rd year I received my first cap Vs. France. It was a very proud moment but a lot had happened to get me to that point. The scholarship programme helped me with balancing all aspects of my life and taking a bit of the stress off. Myself and a few of the other players were supported with petrol money to get to Bristol training and games (closest premiership club), physiotherapy and strength and conditioning. All these things made my on-pitch development easier.

"It wasn't all about making me a better rugby player though. My mentor, Charlotte Hale, was a massive help throughout my time at Exeter with all the off-field areas and I am grateful for all Charlie did for me over the three years. She listened to my problems, helped communicate with my lecturers to organise work and exams for when I was away playing in the 6 Nations or on tour and we spoke about plans for the future (job applications and career paths etc.). Without the scholarship scheme I would not have come out with the same level of success I did - a high 2:1 in Exercise and Sports Science (BSc) and 10 International Caps.

"The thing I am most proud of in my career is my resilience and ability to come back. I've not been the luckiest with injuries over my playing career but I do not give up and I keep working hard to reach my goals. Winning the World Cup in 2014 and the Six Nations Grand Slam in 2017 were also kind of cool though!"